Visit Hiltaba

Hiltaba Nature Reserve is at the western edge of the Gawler Ranges and is home to numerous species of conservation significance.

Hiltaba Nature Reserve is a spectacular conservation property located on the northern edge of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, bordering the Gawler Ranges National Park. Covering 78,000 hectares, this nature reserve offers visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the outback where breathtaking ancient granite hills rise above sweeping plains and rugged gorges, mallee woodlands, and seasonal creek beds create a diverse and dramatic backdrop. These geological features tell a story that spans millions of years, making Hiltaba a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers alike.

Hiltaba lies on the ancestral lands of the Barngarla, Kokatha, and Wirangu (Gawler Ranges) peoples, whose knowledge and traditions continue to shape conservation efforts, ensuring the nature reserve remains a place of respect and learning for all visitors.

The nature reserve is home to more than 40 state-listed and nine nationally-listed threatened species, including the iconic Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby, the elusive Short-tailed Grasswren, the Gawler Ranges Carpet Python and rare plants such as the Desert Greenhood Orchid. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of everything from vibrant wrens to Pink Cockatoos and the majestic Australian Bustard.

Beyond its natural wonders, Hiltaba offers excellent opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails through granite outcrops, enjoy panoramic views from rugged ridges, and stay in unique accommodation options ranging from campgrounds to renovated Shearers’ Quarters. Whether you’re seeking solitude, wildlife encounters, or a deeper connection to Australia’s cultural and ecological heritage, Hiltaba Nature Reserve is a destination like no other.

Conservation in action

Hiltaba is an active nature reserve where vital work happens year-round including:

• Scientific research and monitoring

• Flora and fauna surveys

• Weed and feral animal control

• Infrastructure maintenance and upgrades

• Volunteer programs

• Kids on Country camps and cultural events

Please note: The reserve may be closed at times due to reserve management activities, weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. It is important to check ahead of your travel using the availability calendar, and adhere to "closed" signage or notices.

Getting there

Hiltaba is an 8–9 hour drive from Adelaide via Port Augusta. All tracks are unsealed, so a 4WD or AWD vehicle is essential. Please ensure you check the Outback Roads website for road conditions and closures prior to travelling to Hiltaba. Fuel is not available at Hiltaba – nearest fuel available at Wirrulla. Ablutions amenities are provided at the reserve. When you arrive, follow signs to the Visitor Information Centre at the Hiltaba Woolshed.

Bookings are required to visit and stay at Hiltaba Nature Reserve, including nature drives, and the person booking must either be an existing Nature Foundation member, or join during the booking process below.

Please use the booking calendar below to check availability, and book ahead of your travel to avoid disappointment.

Camping and Accommodation Options

There are several camping and accommodation options available at Hiltaba, including the Hiltaba Shearers Quarters and campground, and Pretty Point Campground which have shared facilities.

Walking Trails

Hiltaba's Walking Trails are a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers. The walks range from 2km to 14km and cater for various fitness levels. They offer breathtaking views of remarkable landscapes, ample opportunities for photography and bird watching, and a chance to view the region's flora and fauna.

Nature Drives

Multiple Nature Drive loops are a great way to explore Hiltaba. These follow former station tracks from when the Nature Reserve was a pastoral property.

Visit Hiltaba FAQs

For full details about safety on the reserve, booking and payments, facilities, getting to Hiltaba, walking trails, nature drives, precinct map and more, please download our Visit Hiltaba FAQs.

Additional information related to visiting and staying on our nature reserves can be found here.

Browse and Book 

Please use the calendar below to browse and book your visit. Green indicates that the reserve is open and available. Grey indicates that the reserve is closed/booked out.

Existing Nature Foundation members: Please have your Member ID ready to verify your membership in the "Create Booking" section after you have selected your camping/accommodation options.

You can find your Member ID in recent emails or letters from Nature Foundation, or contact us by emailing [email protected] (please allow 1-2 business days for a reply) or call (08) 8340 2880 during business hours.

Not a Nature Foundation member yet? No worries! You can easily join as a new member during the booking process by leaving the $50 new Individual membership fee in your order during the "Create Booking" step (i.e. don't add a Member ID). Annual memberships are valid to 31 December 2026.

Your membership will be processed and your new Member ID emailed to you within 24-48 hours to use for future bookings.

See all Nature Foundation member benefits here.